Best lineup strategy for Suns vs. Grizzlies NBA Showdown

The Memphis Grizzlies have their point guard back and will need him to perform at a high level in Monday’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns at 5:00 p.m. ET. DraftKings has Showdown contests centered around the game and we’ve broken down how you can attack them in DFS.

Captain’s Picks

Devin Booker ($13,800) is figuring things out on offense but there are plenty of players in the field who can match his fantasy production. If you expect him to completely dominate Memphis he makes since to captain, but I think Chris Paul ($12,300) is a worthy pivot from the most expensive player in the field.

DeAndre Ayton has been fairly underwhelming this season ($11,700) but has a chance to dominate the Grizzlies with Jonas Valanciunas ruled out. The third-year big man is averaging a double-double and could draw a matchup with rookie Xavier Tillman. This is a great chance for Ayton to dominate on the block as a scorer and rebounder.

FLEX Plays

Mikal Bridges ($6,400) hasn’t come close to his 34-point outburst from earlier this season but remains one of the Suns’ most important players because of his defensive versatility and sharpshooting. Memphis ranks 28th against small forward’s on DraftKings and Bridges could return tremendous value in a ceiling game at this price point.

No Valanciunas or Jaren Jackson means lots of playing time for Brandon Clarke ($7,000). The Grizzlies have limited viable frontcourt options and Clarke is easily a better option than Kyle Anderson and Tillman against a small-ball four like Jae Crowder. He’s eclipsed 30 DKFP in three of his last five games.

Fades

Both the Grizzlies’ backup point guards stand out as potential fade candidates to me. Ja Morant played 31 minutes after returning from an ankle sprain so Tyus Jones ($6,600) and De’Anthony Melton ($4,600) should get a lot less exposure. Jones is the more viable play of the two but paying over $6,000 might be a reach given the other options available.

The Outcome

The Suns have consistently been one of the better teams in the Western Conference and have a clear edge with Memphis missing its second-best player. Phoenix should cover the spread as 5.5-point favorites thanks to its health and experience.

Final score: Suns win 115-107